⥠The Vice-President to act as President | Constitutional Cornerstone
"When a vacancy occurs in the office of the President, the Vice-President shall discharge the functions."
đ Article 65 â Text & Significance
Article 65 of the Constitution of India (Original):
⤠(1) In the event of the occurrence of any vacancy in the office of the President by reason of his death, resignation or removal, or otherwise, the Vice-President shall act as President until the date on which a new President elected enters upon his office.
⤠(2) When the President is unable to discharge his functions owing to absence, illness or any other cause, the Vice-President shall discharge his functions until the date on which the President resumes his duties.
⤠(3) The Vice-President shall, during, and in respect of, the period while he is so acting as, or discharging the functions of, President, have all the powers and immunities of the President and be entitled to such emoluments as Parliament may determine.
⨠Deep Insight: Article 65 ensures the highest office of the Republic never remains vacant. It empowers the Vice-President to seamlessly assume presidential duties, preserving constitutional continuity. This provision has been pivotal during transitions, illness, or unforeseen circumstances, reflecting the framers' foresight.
đ Historical relevance: Since 1950, this article has safeguarded the executive stability. Notably, when Dr. Zakir Hussain passed away in 1969, V.V. Giri acted as President under this provision before being elected. The mechanism upholds the spirit of democratic resilience.
đ§ Did you know? While acting as President under Article 65, the Vice-President does not perform the duties of the Chair of Rajya Sabha (Council of States). The Deputy Chairman then presides over Rajya Sabha. A brilliant balance of powers!
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